International Energy Agency (IEA) Small Solar Power Systems (SSPS) Sodium Cavity and External Receiver Performance Comparison

摘要

This report uses experimental data to compare the performance of two sodium cooled solar central receivers operated at the International Energy Agency Small Solar Power Systems project near Almeria, Spain. Performance includes point-in-time steady state efficiency, average efficiency, start-up time, and operation time. Point-in-time steady state efficiency calculations were based on the statistical method of least squares using receiver incident and absorbed powers. One receiver, a cavity type, showed a peak steady state receiver efficiency of 87% +- 5% and an average efficiency of about 67%. The other receiver, an external 'billboard' type, had a peak steady state receiver efficiency of 96% +- 4% and an average efficiency of about 79%. The original design peak steady state efficiency predictions for both receivers were within the experimentally determined 95% probability interval. Thermal loss test data were evaluated for the external receiver to confirm its point-in-time steady state efficiency independent of the receiver incident power. The thermal loss, which includes emitted radiation, convection, and conduction from the external receiver, was less than 100 kW/sub t/ with the receiver operating at normal design conditions and having an absorbed power of over 2200 kW/sub t/. (ERA citation 13:000559)